The cost of living in Switzerland is relatively high. It can be helpful to purchase certain items secondhand. Persons with little money can use special shops with lower prices.
Switzerland has many thrift shops (Brockenhäuser). This is where used goods can be purchased at low prices. Also, individuals sell used goods at special markets, e.g. flea markets (Flohmärkte), markets for used clothing, or ski gear, etc. Web portals are another popular way of selling and purchasing used articles.
People with limited financial means are offered discounts for recreational, athletic, cultural or educational events when using the Kulturlegi pass. Applications for the pass are made through Caritas. Caritas provides additional information and verifies whether the requirements for a Kulturlegi pass are met. You can also obtain discounts for many activities with the Familienpass, FamilienpassPlus or colourkey.
People with little financial means can shop for inexpensive food and everyday items in Caritas markets (Caritas Markt). In order to do so, you need to obtain a special pass which can be applied for through Caritas. Caritas provides additional information and verifies whether the requirements are met. There is a Caritas shop in Basel.
People who do not have sufficient means to meet basic needs are often eligible for state aid. This might include price reductions for health insurance or scholarships. Under certain circumstances one may receive money from the social insurance or social assistance. Families with little money may be able to apply for support contributions for their rent under certain conditions (Familienmietzinsbeiträge).
